Moyamoya Disease

Also known as: "Puff of smoke", moyamoya syndrome.

What is Moyamoya disease?

Moyamoya disease is a rare disease, frequently seen in children, that causes the blood vessels in the brain to narrow. There are many causes for this disease and treatment is tailored according to the severity of the disease.

What causes Moyamoya disease?

The cause of the disease is unknown, however, in 10% of affected patients it appears to be familial (genetic). It is also more common in people from Asian countries, (though it does occur in Western nations, as well).

Sometimes Moyamoya disease is associated with a number of other diseases.

What are the symptoms of Moyamoya disease?

Unfortunately, moyamoya disease typically doesn’t cause symptoms until a transient ischemic attack (TIA), or mini-stroke, occurs. This can cause headaches, dizziness, seizures, weakness or paralysis of a portion of the body.

What are moyamoya disease care options?

The disease usually requires surgery to restore the flow of blood to the brain. This can successfully treat moyamoya disease in many people, particularly children, though clinical  results will depend on whether a stroke has occurred.


Reviewed by: Gregory W Hornig, MD

This page was last updated on: May 22, 2023 11:26 AM

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